Nogales Doctors and Dentists Directory
Nogales, Sonora, Mexico
http://MexicanDoctorsDir.com

  October 28, 2008

RE: Travel Alert

Dear Directory Visitor:

On October 14, 2008 , the U.S. State Department issued a Travel Alert for certain cities in Mexico , including Nogales , Sonora , Mexico . The State Department basically is saying that U.S. citizens should use common-sense and stay in the tourist areas.

This alert is in response to the increased violence in Mexico between the drug cartels trying to gain control. The violence is, at this time, confined to the bad guys and there have not been any threads or harm to U.S. citizens.

Since the alert was issued, many of the Anglo Saxon Americans interviewed by Tucson news people have said they felt as safe as if they were in Tucson . I have gotten the same response from a dozen or more patients that I met in doctors’ offices. They believe that the stories and the negativity are greatly exaggerated.

My personal observations include seeing many more police offices around the city. The visitors are enjoying themselves shopping, eating in the restaurants, walking around the shops and their keeping their appointments. I walk or take the bus to see the doctors and I still feel as welcome and as comfortable as I ever have. By the way, I don’t speak Spanish, yet there is always someone to help me communicate.

Perspective:

Tucson and Phoenix have both had more homicides during the first 10 months of 2008 than Nogales . In addition, they have had far more assaults, rapes, robberies, burglaries, car thefts, home invasions, vandalism and etc., than Nogales . A high percentage of these crimes are related to the drug cartels, their associates, and finally, their drug users.

There are many places that a US citizen should not go in Tucson or Phoenix . People should always use common-sense and be aware of their surroundings. When in Nogales (or Tucson ) it is always prudent to let someone know where you are, and carry a cell phone (most work across the border.)

Over half of the doctors and dentists live in Arizona and travel back and forth daily; often they bring their wives and kids. I don’t believe that they would put their families at risk any more than their patients if they felt that there was any danger.

Summary:

Be aware, but don’t be afraid. Enjoy a day in Nogales , save a bunch of money while you get U.S. quality health and dental care. It is almost like being in Tucson , except you will have a better experience in Nogales where the people and doctors respect you, and your time. 

Sincerely,